In a landmark initiative to enhance healthcare access for vulnerable groups, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a Medical Palliatives Program, providing free medications to those in need.
The program, led by FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike, aims to alleviate the financial burden of healthcare by offering free medications, ensuring better health outcomes for the underprivileged.
Announcing the program at Gwarimpa General Hospital, Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasaye, underscored its potential to foster a more equitable healthcare system. “I am pleased to announce that the Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has approved the concept of medical palliatives and is eagerly anticipating its impact,” Dr. Fasaye stated.
He clarified that the initiative is not a typical medical outreach but a controlled program managed by FCT hospital doctors. “Doctors will use scientific guidelines and their discretion to determine who qualifies for medical palliatives. These medications will be provided for free,” he explained.
Part of the Renewed Hope Initiative championed by President Bola Tinubu, the program emphasizes sustainability and thorough testing before a nationwide rollout. “As doctors and scientists, we prefer to pilot tests and assess outcomes before expanding a project or program,” Dr. Fasaye noted.
Addressing funding concerns, Dr. Fasaye highlighted the National Health Insurance Scheme’s (NHIS) role. “To qualify for medical palliatives, individuals will register on the NHIS for free, which includes provisions for vulnerable people,” he said. Community leaders will help identify the most impoverished residents eligible for free treatment under the scheme.
Known as “Mr. Projects,” the FCT Minister is committed to building sustainable systems to improve health outcomes, beyond infrastructure development. “This is a selfless project. The doctors and nurses involved will not receive extra pay for their participation,” Dr. Fasaye added.
Dr. Fasaye also tackled the issue of medication wastage, assuring that the program will utilize medications nearing their expiration date but still effective. “We are not giving out expired drugs. We are providing medications that have excess stock to those in need,” he clarified.
Initially focusing on chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, the program will offer a one-month supply of medication for free to patients. “This will help patients allocate their funds for other necessities, contributing to financial stability and improved health,” Dr. Fasaye said.
Minister of Health and Social Development, Dr. Ali Pate, emphasized the program’s alignment with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “The health and well-being of Nigerians is central to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Today’s launch with the FCTA is another step towards better health outcomes. We’re supporting pregnant women with essential items for self-delivery, malaria protection, and micronutrient supplements for their health and their unborn children’s strength,” he said.
Permanent Secretary Baba Gana Adam highlighted the comprehensive welfare package accompanying the program, which includes free medical tests and food distribution, such as rice, garri, and tom brown for children. A significant benefit is the free enrollment of pregnant women into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme for one year, covering newborns as well. This ensures essential healthcare services for mothers and their babies without financial strain.
A designated desk officer for FCT Health Insurance will facilitate registration, and residents can inquire about the process at their local hospital. These measures reflect the administration’s commitment to providing essential health services and support during challenging times.
News Editor